Dynamic Quality Of Service Setting System

ABSTRACT

A quality of service system comprising at least one quality of service controller, the quality of service controller receiving a request for a change in service priority from a default priority to an altered priority; analyzing the request to determine if the requested change in service priority can be granted, when the request for a change in service priority can be granted, preparing an altered flow rule including a tag identifying the altered priority; and pushing the altered flow rule to at least one access hardware.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of, and claims priority to, U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/946,036, filed Apr. 5, 2018, entitled“Dynamic Quality Of Service Setting System,” the entire contents ofwhich are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to network management and, morespecifically, to a dynamic quality of service setting system. Moreparticularly, the disclosure relates to a dynamic quality of servicesetting system in a software defined network. Most particularly, thedisclosure relates to a system that includes a controller that changesquality of service settings on demand by reviewing a request from auser/CPE and issuing an adapted flow rule that provides the requestedsetting change.

BACKGROUND

Communication networks have migrated from using specialized networkingequipment executing on dedicated hardware, like routers, firewalls, andgateways, to software defined networks (SDNs) executing as virtualizednetwork functions (VNF) in a cloud infrastructure. To provide a service,a set of VNFs may be instantiated on the general purpose hardware. EachVNF may require one or more virtual machines (VMs) to be instantiated.In turn, VMs may require various resources, such as memory, virtualcomputer processing units (vCPUs), network interfaces or networkinterface cards (NICs), and servers.

One benefit of cloud computing is the elastic nature of the cloud andthe ability to share resources among users and/or spin up virtualresources on demand. Elasticity of resources extends to processingpower, storage, bandwidth, virtual functions, and virtual machines. Theamount of resources that can be sourced through cloud computingincorporates nearly all facets of computing from raw processing power tostorage space.

Quality of service (QOS) is intended to control and manage networkresources. With careful design and implementation, mission-criticalapplications can co-exist with regular web surf traffic. QOS setting inaccess network includes traffic classification, marking (traffic withpriority bit), queuing, scheduling, traffic-shaping and other functions.In the past, traffic classification was static. Based on the type oftraffic, a network designer assigned a priority bit (marker) to classifyeach traffic type. Once the traffic type is classified and marker isestablished, it remains at the same level until a new network designscheme is implemented. In the traditional network, a QOS change is stillpossible through manual reconfiguration of the system. Such a change,however, cannot be made at the instance of a user's request i.e.on-demand. And there is no centralized intelligence to configure QOSbased on network condition change. It is desirable to change a QOSsetting without waiting for a network redesign. It is further desirableto make such a change on-demand allowing the change to occurautomatically upon request. It is also desirable to make an automaticchange in the QOS setting that reverts back to the prior setting at theconclusion of a session, a set period of time, or upon some othertrigger to provide greater flexibility in how QOS is delivered in asoftware defined network (SDN).

The disclosure includes examples addressing at least one of theseproblems.

SUMMARY

The following disclosure generally relates to a system having acontroller that automatically changes a QOS setting in SDN controllednetwork. The system includes an input allowing a user to requestdifferent service priority on the fly. Even for the same traffic type,the controller can set a different QOS priority by changing the prioritymarker. The change in QOS setting may be applied to a defined service,session, time frame or until occurrence of another trigger. Uponreaching the trigger, the controller reverts the setting to its originallevel. According to one example, the request may also cause controllerto update a user account to apply a separate charge for the change inQOS.

According to an example, the disclosure generally provides a networkdevice comprising: a processor, an input/output device coupled to theprocessor, and a memory coupled with the processor, the memorycomprising executable instructions that when executed by the processorcause the processor to effectuate operations comprising: instantiatingat least one quality of service controller, the quality of servicecontroller receiving a request for a change in a QOS setting from adefault QOS setting to an altered QOS setting; analyzing the request todetermine if the requested change in QOS setting can be granted; whenthe request for a change in QOS setting can be granted, preparing analtered flow rule including a tag identifying the altered QOS setting;and pushing the altered flow rule to at least one access hardware.

Still another example provides quality of service setting systemcomprising: a quality of service controller including an input/outputdevice; at least one user/CPE having a default QOS setting, the at leastone user/CPE selectively communicating a request for an altered QOSsetting to the quality of service controller; wherein the quality ofservice controller, upon determining that the request for the alteredQOS setting can be granted, is configured to issue an altered flow ruleincluding a tag establishing the altered QOS setting for the at leastone user/CPE, wherein subsequent communications from the user/CPE carrythe tag.

Another example provides a method of changing a quality of servicesetting on demand in a network, the method comprising: providing aquality of service controller in communication with an SDN controllerand at least one user/CPE, where the user/CPE has a default QOS setting;when a request to change the default QOS setting to an altered QOSsetting is received by the quality of service controller from theuser/CPE, analyzing whether the request can be granted; when grantingthe request, providing an altered flow rule having a tag that indicatesto access hardware that communications from the user/CPE will have thealtered QOS setting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding ofthe variations in implementing the disclosed technology. However, theinstant disclosure may take many different forms and should not beconstrued as limited to the examples set forth herein. Where practical,like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

FIG. 1A is a representation of an exemplary network.

FIG. 1B is a representation of an exemplary hardware platform.

FIG. 2 is a representation of a quality of service setting systemaccording to an example.

FIG. 2A is a representation similar to FIG. 2 depicting an example wherea priority request is denied.

FIG. 2B is a representation of a QOS controller according to an exampleissuing an altered flow rule according to an example.

FIG. 2C is a flow diagram depicting operations of a quality of servicesystem according to an example.

FIG. 3 is a representation of a network device according to an example.

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary communication system that provides wirelesstelecommunication services over wireless communication networks that maybe at least partially implemented as an SDN.

FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary diagrammatic representation of a machine inthe form of a computer system.

FIG. 6 is a representation of a telecommunications network.

FIG. 7 is a representation of a core network.

FIG. 8 is a representation packet-based mobile cellular networkenvironment.

FIG. 9 is a representation of a GPRS network.

FIG. 10 is a representation a PLMN architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A is a representation of an exemplary network 100. Network 100 maycomprise a software defined network or SDN—that is, network 100 mayinclude one or more virtualized functions implemented on general purposehardware, such as in lieu of having dedicated hardware for every networkfunction. General purpose hardware of network 100 may be configured torun virtual network elements to support communication services, such asmobility services or broadband access network, including consumerservices and enterprise services. These services may be provided ormeasured in sessions.

A virtual network function(s) (VNF) 102 may be able to support a limitednumber of sessions. Each VNF 102 may have a VNF type that indicates itsfunctionality or role. For example, FIG. 1A illustrates a gateway VNF102 a and a policy and charging rules function (PCRF) VNF 102 b orborder network gateway (BNG). Additionally or alternatively, VNFs 102may include other types of VNFs including but not limited to security,routing, wide area network (WAN) optimization and others within aservice providers virtual network offerings.

Each VNF 102 may use one or more virtual machine (VM) 104 to operate.Each VM 104 may have a VM type that indicates its functionality or role.For example, FIG. 1A illustrates a QOS control module (QCM) VM 104 a anda broadband network gateway (BNG) VM 104 b. Additionally oralternatively, VM 104 may include other types of VMs. Each VM 104 mayconsume various network resources from a hardware platform 106, such asa resource 108, a virtual central processing unit (vCPU) 108 a, memory108 b, or a network interface card (NIC) 108 c. Additionally oralternatively, hardware platform 106 may include other types ofresources 108.

While FIG. 1A illustrates resources 108 as collectively contained inhardware platform 106, the configuration of hardware platform 106 mayisolate, for example, certain memory 108 c from other memory 108 a. FIG.1B provides an exemplary implementation of hardware platform 106.

Hardware platform 106 may comprise one or more chasses 110. Chassis 110may refer to the physical housing or platform for multiple servers orother network equipment. In an aspect, chassis 110 may also refer to theunderlying network equipment. Chassis 110 may include one or moreservers 112. Server 112 may comprise general purpose computer hardwareor a computer. In an aspect, chassis 110 may comprise a metal rack, andservers 112 of chassis 110 may comprise blade servers that arephysically mounted in or on chassis 110.

Each server 112 may include one or more network resources 108, asillustrated. Servers 112 may be communicatively coupled together in anycombination or arrangement. For example, all servers 112 within a givenchassis 110 may be communicatively coupled. As another example, servers112 in different chasses 110 may be communicatively coupled.Additionally or alternatively, chasses 110 may be communicativelycoupled together in any combination or arrangement.

The characteristics of each chassis 110 and each server 112 may differ.For example, FIG. 1B illustrates that the number of servers 112 withintwo chasses 110 may vary. Additionally or alternatively, the type ornumber of resources 110 within each server 112 may vary. In an aspect,chassis 110 may be used to group servers 112 with the same resourcecharacteristics. In another aspect, servers 112 within the same chassis110 may have different resource characteristics.

With reference to FIG. 2, a system for automatically changing a QOSsetting is generally indicated by the number 200. System 200 generallyincludes a QOS controller 210 that may be incorporated within a QOScontrol module 104 a on the network 100 as described above. QOScontroller 210 may also be instantiated as a VM or VNF in a SDN. QOScontroller 210 generally changes a QOS setting or provides a temporaryQOS setting in response to a request. QOS controller 210 communicateswith a network controller 220 to change the setting. In the example,network controller 220 is a SDN controller. The SDN controller 220 mayin turn be in communication with other network elements, generallyindicated at 230, such as access hardware including but not limited tooptical line termination (OTL) devices and the like. Once the QOScontroller 210 changes the setting, this setting is pushed down vianetwork controller 220 to the network elements 230 such that anysubsequent traffic for the requested session is treated according to therequested setting change.

To receive a request, controller 210 includes or is in communicationwith an input/output device. In FIG. 2, the input/output device 212 isprovided as a component of the QOS controller 210. As described morecompletely below, input/output device may be a network device, virtualmachine or virtual network function, and therefore, may be remote fromcontroller 210 and connected to controller 210 to transmit the request216 as discussed below. In the example, a user may send a request 216via customer premises equipment (CPE) 215 in communication with network100. CPE 215 may include but is not limited to devices such astelephones, computers, smart devices and the like, routers, networkswitches, residential gateways, set-top boxes, fixed mobile convergenceproducts, mini-cloud products, home networking adapters, and internetaccess gateways. Request 216 is communicated to QOS controller 210. Asshown, request 216 flows through a network element (NE) 230 to which CPE215 communicates. When a request is received via input/output device212, controller 210 may grant the request 216, and apply a flow rulethat changes the QOS. With continued reference to FIG. 2, flow rule maybe provided in a response 218 returned from QOS controller 210 tonetwork element 230.

In one example, before applying the mark 240, controller 210 analyzesthe network 100 to determine whether the QOS setting in the request 216is available. For example, QOS controller 210 may query SDN controller220 to determine if sufficient resources exist or if sufficientresources can be instantiated to meet the request 216. In this example,if the requested QOS is available, QOS controller 210 sends a response218 that approves the request 216 and provides an altered flow rule FRato effect the change in service priority. For example, flow rule FRa mayinclude a tag or mark 240 that changes the QOS, as discussed morecompletely below. If the QOS is not available, controller 210 may send aresponse 218 denying the request 216 (FIG. 2A). In this instance, theQOS remains at the default or present level.

When the request 216 is granted, QOS controller 210 issues a flow ruleFRa in a response 218. The flow rule FRa may include a tag or mark 240that indicates to the network 100 that the QOS setting has changed. Forexample, if the request 216 asked that a session be given higherpriority, mark 240 may provide a higher priority bit setting that willpush down to access hardware at 245. All new traffic 246 from the CPE230 would also be tagged with the higher priority bit as it travelsupstream to network 100 via virtual border network gateway (vBNG) 248 asshown. The new traffic 246 with its priority tag 240 is given additionalresources, e.g. network elements 230, as schematically shown. In thisway, controller 210 is responsive to a request 216 in an on-demandfashion.

The request 216 may be used to make a permanent change in the user'spriority, but it is expected that the more prevalent use will be totemporarily alter service priority based on short term demand. Thus, QOScontroller 210 may change the QOS setting temporarily. For example, auser may request that a particular session be granted differentpriority, such as, to send a high priority message, conduct a conferencecall, video conference or webinar with higher priority. In this example,QOS controller is setting a higher priority for without regard for thecommunication type. In this way, while the static system rules maydictate that emails have one priority and video conferencing haveanother priority, the flow rule change overrides these static rules.Once the session is over, the set time expires or other event that actsas a trigger 244 to terminate the rule change, QOS controller sends asecond response that resets the flow rule to the original QOS.

With respect to the use of a mark 240, an adjusted flow rule FRaestablishing a different level of priority may be implemented byassigning a priority bit (pbit) 242 (FIG. 2B). A mark 240 may be appliedby using free bits in a IP or DSCP address to indicate a priority level.For example, in the 8 bit (0-7) IP address, shown in FIG. 2B, bits 1-3are unused. These bits are used as priority bits 242, and thus may beused to indicate varying levels of priority for the CPE 230. In theexample, a default flow rule FRd does not use these bits giving them a 0value. In the example, a higher priority level is provided in FRa bychanging the value of all of the bits 1-3 to 1. It will be understoodthat other combinations of 0s and 1s may be used to indicate otherlevels of priority with up to 9 levels being available in the providedexample. In another example, a differentiated services code point (DSCP)6 bit value in an IP header may be used in conjunction with the IPaddress converting the normal 8 bit address to a 48 bit address toprovide even greater granularity in setting priority levels. As furtherdepicted in FIG. 2B, a trigger 244, such as a session time limit may beprovided in the FRa to set a time limit for the higher priority setting.In the example, trigger 244 is a max time field in the IP address. Asshown, the maximum time is set to 120 seconds in the example. It will beunderstood that other time values may be used within the context of theIP address. Since the user may accept a default time limit for thepriority setting, the controller 210 may not change the max time in theaddress in the adjusted flow rule FRa. This setting may also remain thesame when other triggers are used.

According to another example, QOS controller 210 may provide an IGMPrequest through a special VLAN. The mark 240 is applied by using areserved IGMPIP/MAC address just for QOS request. In the SDN controller220, QOS controller 210 sets up an IGMP flow rule for QOS purposes. Itdirects QOS request 216 to SDN controller 220, then to QOS controller210. The QOS request 216 may be similar to an internet group managementprotocol (IGMP) report. To change the flow rule, QOS controller 210changes the source IP address causing all traffic from CPE 215 to beassigned the higher priority for an IGMP communication.

As indicated, the adjusted flow rule FRa may be applied to a particularsession, set time frame, or other trigger. In some instances, thetrigger will not expire automatically and controller 210 may interveneto reset the flow rule to a default level i.e. the level before prioritywas requested. To that end, upon expiration of the session, set timeframe or upon occurrence of the trigger indicating that priority shouldbe removed, controller 210 may issue a default flow rule FRd thatreturns the priority to its normal or default level. For example, if amark 240 has been applied, the mark 240 may be removed. In the examplewhere a priority bit 242 is used to designate a priority level, the bitmay be returned to its default setting, all 0s in the example shown inFIG. 2B. Likewise, in an example, where a priority request 216 isrejected (FIG. 2A), the flow rule remains at its default setting (FRd).

According to an example, the QOS setting and adjustment is not basedsolely on the user request 216. The request 216 is considered based onresource management, and may also consider the user's service levelagreement (SLA), historical usage, backend feedback and the like. In theexample, QOS is no longer a static requirement and can be changeddynamically by controller 210. In addition, changes are implemented bycontroller 210 automatically without operator intervention. The abilityof controller 210 to make changes on a same service level and changeservice priority on-demand, the system 200 provides greater flexibilityand the ability to customize usage. In a SDN controlled network, acarrier voice over internet protocol (cVoIP) process, such as an SIPserver, can be co-located with or more easily communicate with QOS APIinside SDN controller. In this example, the ability to assign higherpriority to cVoIP make it easier for the carrier/user to adjust voicecall quality.

With reference to FIG. 2C, system 200 may perform operations generallyindicated by the number 250. According to an example, system 200instantiates a QOS controller 210 at step 251. QOS controller 210 may bea virtual machine instance, a virtual network function, network deviceor dedicated apparatus. According to one example, system 200instantiates QOS controller 210 within a SDN controller 220. QOScontroller 210 may also be instantiated outside of the SDN controller220. QOS controller 210 may be instantiated before receiving a request216 or at the instance of a request 216. For example, a request 216 maybe tagged to trigger instantiation of QOS controller 210 to conservenetwork resources until needed. A request 216 may be tagged or encodedto identify that it requires review by a QOS controller, to instantiatethe QOS controller 210 and route the request 216 to the QOS controller210. For example, an IGMP request 216 with a special IP address may sentupstream to network 100 to route it to QOS controller 210.

At step 252, QOS controller 210 receives a request 216 for a QOS settingchange or request 216 to alter a QOS setting. In most cases, it isexpected that a user will request 216 an increase in priority based on aneed for greater bandwidth, signal reliability etc. It is possible,however, that the request 216 will include a request to degrade orde-prioritize on a temporary basis. When a request 216 is received, QOScontroller 210 analyzes the request 216 to determine if it is possibleto grant the request 216 at step 253. For example, QOS controller 210may determine if sufficient resources are available, such as, byquerying SDN controller 220 to determine whether additional/fewernetwork elements 230 may be employed to meet the priority demand. QOScontroller's analysis may also consider limitations within the user'sSLA, policy rules, any balances owed, or other factors that may affectthe grant or denial of the request 216. If QOS controller determinesthat insufficient resources exist or other factor/policy indicates thatthe request 216 should be denied, the request 216 is denied at step 254.The flow rule for the user CPE 215 is maintained at its default settingFRd. If QOS controller 210 grants request 216, a new flow rule withaltered setting FRa is prepared. It is expected that most requests willbe made in an on demand basis for temporary changes in priority. In suchinstances, the grant of the request and preparation of a new flow ruleat 255 may also include the additional step 256 of applying a trigger torevert to the default flow rule FRd. As discussed above, trigger mayinclude any limit on the change in priority including but not limited toapplying the change to a session, for a limited time or other limit. Tothat end, QOS controller 210 may monitor whether a trigger has occurredat step 257 to revert the user/CPE 215 to the default flow rule FRd at258. If the trigger has not occurred, the altered flow rule FRa ispushed down to access hardware at step 259, and new traffic fromuser/CPE is tagged at 260 with the new priority setting, such as forexample using a pbit, to ensure the desired priority level ascommunications flow from user/CPE 215 upstream to network 100.

As referenced above, quality of service system 200 may be implemented ina network device. FIG. 3 illustrates a functional block diagramdepicting one example of a network device, generally indicated at 300.Network device 300 may comprise a processor 302 and a memory 304 coupledto processor 302. Memory 304 may contain executable instructions that,when executed by processor 302, cause processor 302 to effectuateoperations associated with building and onboarding at least one VNF asdescribed above. As evident from the description herein, network device300 is not to be construed as software per se.

In addition to processor 302 and memory 304, network device 300 mayinclude an input/output system 306. Processor 302, memory 304, andinput/output system 306 may be coupled together to allow communicationsbetween them. Each portion of network device 300 may comprise circuitryfor performing functions associated with each respective portion. Thus,each portion may comprise hardware, or a combination of hardware andsoftware. Accordingly, each portion of network device 300 is not to beconstrued as software per se. Input/output system 306 may be capable ofreceiving or providing information from or to a communications device orother network entities configured for telecommunications. For exampleinput/output system 306 may include a wireless communications (e.g.,3G/4G/GPS) card. Input/output system 306 may be capable of receiving orsending video information, audio information, control information, imageinformation, data, or any combination thereof. Input/output system 306may be capable of transferring information with network device 300. Invarious configurations, input/output system 306 may receive or provideinformation via any appropriate means, such as, for example, opticalmeans (e.g., infrared), electromagnetic means (e.g., RF, Wi-Fi,Bluetooth®, ZigBee®), acoustic means (e.g., speaker, microphone,ultrasonic receiver, ultrasonic transmitter), electrical means, or acombination thereof. In an example configuration, input/output system306 may comprise a Wi-Fi finder, a two-way GPS chipset or equivalent, orthe like, or a combination thereof. Bluetooth, infrared, NFC, and Zigbeeare generally considered short range (e.g., few centimeters to 20meters). WiFi is considered medium range (e.g., approximately 100meters).

Input/output system 306 of network device 300 also may contain acommunication connection 308 that allows network device 300 tocommunicate with other devices, network entities, or the like.Communication connection 308 may comprise communication media.Communication media typically embody computer-readable instructions,data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated datasignal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includesany information delivery media. By way of example, and not limitation,communication media may include wired media such as a wired network ordirect-wired connection, or wireless media such as acoustic, RF,infrared, or other wireless media. The term computer-readable media asused herein includes both storage media and communication media.Input/output system 306 also may include an input device 310 such askeyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, or touch input device.Input/output system 306 may also include an output device 312, such as adisplay, speakers, or a printer.

Processor 302 may be capable of performing functions associated withtelecommunications, such as functions for processing broadcast messages,as described herein. For example, processor 302 may be capable of, inconjunction with any other portion of network device 300, determining atype of broadcast message and acting according to the broadcast messagetype or content, as described herein.

Memory 304 of network device 300 may comprise a storage medium having aconcrete, tangible, physical structure. As is known, a signal does nothave a concrete, tangible, physical structure. Memory 304, as well asany computer-readable storage medium described herein, is not to beconstrued as a signal. Memory 304, as well as any computer-readablestorage medium described herein, is not to be construed as a transientsignal. Memory 304, as well as any computer-readable storage mediumdescribed herein, is not to be construed as a propagating signal. Memory304, as well as any computer-readable storage medium described herein,is to be construed as an article of manufacture.

Memory 304 may store any information utilized in conjunction withtelecommunications. Depending upon the exact configuration or type ofprocessor, memory 304 may include a volatile storage 314 (such as sometypes of RAM), a nonvolatile storage 316 (such as ROM, flash memory), ora combination thereof. Memory 304 may include additional storage (e.g.,a removable storage 318 or a non-removable storage 320) including, forexample, tape, flash memory, smart cards, CD-ROM, DVD, or other opticalstorage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage orother magnetic storage devices, USB-compatible memory, or any othermedium that can be used to store information and that can be accessed bynetwork device 300. Memory 304 may comprise executable instructionsthat, when executed by processor 302, cause processor 302 to effectuateoperations to change QOS on demand as described above.

As discussed previously, a quality of service system 200 QOS controller210 may be incorporated in an SDN 100. SDN 100 may be implemented in orcommunicate with a variety of network architectures. Examplearchitectures will now be described with reference to FIGS. 4-10. Theseexamples should not be considered limiting. FIG. 4 illustrates afunctional block diagram depicting one example of an LTE-EPS networkarchitecture 400 that may be at least partially implemented as an SDN100. Network architecture 400 disclosed herein is referred to as amodified LTE-EPS architecture 400 to distinguish it from a traditionalLTE-EPS architecture.

An example modified LTE-EPS architecture 400 is based at least in parton standards developed by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP),with information available at www.3gpp.org. LTE-EPS network architecture400 may include an access network 402, a core network 404, e.g., an EPCor Common BackBone (CBB) and one or more external networks 406,sometimes referred to as PDN or peer entities. Different externalnetworks 406 can be distinguished from each other by a respectivenetwork identifier, e.g., a label according to DNS naming conventionsdescribing an access point to the PDN. Such labels can be referred to asAccess Point Names (APN). External networks 406 can include one or moretrusted and non-trusted external networks such as an internet protocol(IP) network 408, an IP multimedia subsystem (IMS) network 410, andother networks 412, such as a service network, a corporate network, orthe like. In an aspect, access network 402, core network 404, orexternal network 405 may include or communicate with network 100.

Access network 402 can include an LTE network architecture sometimesreferred to as Evolved Universal mobile Telecommunication systemTerrestrial Radio Access (E UTRA) and evolved UMTS Terrestrial RadioAccess Network (E-UTRAN). Broadly, access network 402 can include one ormore communication devices, commonly referred to as UE 414, and one ormore wireless access nodes, or base stations 416 a, 416 b. Duringnetwork operations, at least one base station 416 communicates directlywith UE 414. Base station 416 can be an evolved Node B (e-NodeB), withwhich UE 414 communicates over the air and wirelessly. UEs 414 caninclude, without limitation, wireless devices, e.g., satellitecommunication systems, portable digital assistants (PDAs), laptopcomputers, tablet devices and other mobile devices (e.g., cellulartelephones, smart appliances, and so on). UEs 414 can connect to eNBs416 when UE 414 is within range according to a corresponding wirelesscommunication technology.

UE 414 generally runs one or more applications that engage in a transferof packets between UE 414 and one or more external networks 406. Suchpacket transfers can include one of downlink packet transfers fromexternal network 406 to UE 414, uplink packet transfers from UE 414 toexternal network 406 or combinations of uplink and downlink packettransfers. Applications can include, without limitation, web browsing,VoIP, streaming media and the like. Each application can pose differentQuality of Service (QoS) requirements on a respective packet transfer.Different packet transfers can be served by different bearers withincore network 404, e.g., according to parameters, such as the QoS.

Core network 404 uses a concept of bearers, e.g., EPS bearers, to routepackets, e.g., IP traffic, between a particular gateway in core network404 and UE 414. A bearer refers generally to an IP packet flow with adefined QoS between the particular gateway and UE 414. Access network402, e.g., E UTRAN, and core network 404 together set up and releasebearers as required by the various applications. Bearers can beclassified in at least two different categories: (i) minimum guaranteedbit rate bearers, e.g., for applications, such as VoIP; and (ii)non-guaranteed bit rate bearers that do not require guarantee bit rate,e.g., for applications, such as web browsing.

In one embodiment, the core network 404 includes various networkentities, such as MME 418, SGW 420, Home Subscriber Server (HSS) 422,Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) 424 and PGW 426. In oneembodiment, MME 418 comprises a control node performing a controlsignaling between various equipment and devices in access network 402and core network 404. The protocols running between UE 414 and corenetwork 404 are generally known as Non-Access Stratum (NAS) protocols.

For illustration purposes only, the terms MME 418, SGW 420, HSS 422 andPGW 426, and so on, can be server devices, but may be referred to in thesubject disclosure without the word “server.” It is also understood thatany form of such servers can operate in a device, system, component, orother form of centralized or distributed hardware and software. It isfurther noted that these terms and other terms such as bearer pathsand/or interfaces are terms that can include features, methodologies,and/or fields that may be described in whole or in part by standardsbodies such as the 3GPP. It is further noted that some or allembodiments of the subject disclosure may in whole or in part modify,supplement, or otherwise supersede final or proposed standards publishedand promulgated by 3GPP.

According to traditional implementations of LTE-EPS architectures, SGW420 routes and forwards all user data packets. SGW 420 also acts as amobility anchor for user plane operation during handovers between basestations, e.g., during a handover from first eNB 416 a to second eNB 416b as may be the result of UE 414 moving from one area of coverage, e.g.,cell, to another. SGW 420 can also terminate a downlink data path, e.g.,from external network 406 to UE 414 in an idle state, and trigger apaging operation when downlink data arrives for UE 414. SGW 420 can alsobe configured to manage and store a context for UE 414, e.g., includingone or more of parameters of the IP bearer service and network internalrouting information. In addition, SGW 420 can perform administrativefunctions, e.g., in a visited network, such as collecting informationfor charging (e.g., the volume of data sent to or received from theuser), and/or replicate user traffic, e.g., to support a lawfulinterception. SGW 420 also serves as the mobility anchor forinterworking with other 3GPP technologies such as universal mobiletelecommunication system (UMTS).

At any given time, UE 414 is generally in one of three different states:detached, idle, or active. The detached state is typically a transitorystate in which UE 414 is powered on but is engaged in a process ofsearching and registering with network 402. In the active state, UE 414is registered with access network 402 and has established a wirelessconnection, e.g., radio resource control (RRC) connection, with eNB 416.Whether UE 414 is in an active state can depend on the state of a packetdata session, and whether there is an active packet data session. In theidle state, UE 414 is generally in a power conservation state in whichUE 414 typically does not communicate packets. When UE 414 is idle, SGW420 can terminate a downlink data path, e.g., from one peer entity 406,and triggers paging of UE 414 when data arrives for UE 414. If UE 414responds to the page, SGW 420 can forward the IP packet to eNB 416 a.

HSS 422 can manage subscription-related information for a user of UE414. For example, tHSS 422 can store information such as authorizationof the user, security requirements for the user, quality of service(QoS) requirements for the user, etc. HSS 422 can also hold informationabout external networks 406 to which the user can connect, e.g., in theform of an APN of external networks 406. For example, MME 418 cancommunicate with HSS 422 to determine if UE 414 is authorized toestablish a call, e.g., a voice over IP (VoIP) call before the call isestablished.

PCRF 424 can perform QoS management functions and policy control. PCRF424 is responsible for policy control decision-making, as well as forcontrolling the flow-based charging functionalities in a policy controlenforcement function (PCEF), which resides in PGW 426. PCRF 424 providesthe QoS authorization, e.g., QoS class identifier and bit rates thatdecide how a certain data flow will be treated in the PCEF and ensuresthat this is in accordance with the user's subscription profile.

PGW 426 can provide connectivity between the UE 414 and one or more ofthe external networks 406. In illustrative network architecture 400, PGW426 can be responsible for IP address allocation for UE 414, as well asone or more of QoS enforcement and flow-based charging, e.g., accordingto rules from the PCRF 424. PGW 426 is also typically responsible forfiltering downlink user IP packets into the different QoS-based bearers.In at least some embodiments, such filtering can be performed based ontraffic flow templates. PGW 426 can also perform QoS enforcement, e.g.,for guaranteed bit rate bearers. PGW 426 also serves as a mobilityanchor for interworking with non-3GPP technologies such as CDMA2000.

Within access network 402 and core network 404 there may be variousbearer paths/interfaces, e.g., represented by solid lines 428 and 430.Some of the bearer paths can be referred to by a specific label. Forexample, solid line 428 can be considered an S1-U bearer and solid line432 can be considered an S5/S8 bearer according to LTE-EPS architecturestandards. Without limitation, reference to various interfaces, such asS1, X2, S5, S8, S11 refer to EPS interfaces. In some instances, suchinterface designations are combined with a suffix, e.g., a “U” or a “C”to signify whether the interface relates to a “User plane” or a “Controlplane.” In addition, the core network 404 can include various signalingbearer paths/interfaces, e.g., control plane paths/interfacesrepresented by dashed lines 430, 434, 436, and 438. Some of thesignaling bearer paths may be referred to by a specific label. Forexample, dashed line 430 can be considered as an S1-MME signalingbearer, dashed line 434 can be considered as an S11 signaling bearer anddashed line 436 can be considered as an S6a signaling bearer, e.g.,according to LTE-EPS architecture standards. The above bearer paths andsignaling bearer paths are only illustrated as examples and it should benoted that additional bearer paths and signaling bearer paths may existthat are not illustrated.

Also shown is a novel user plane path/interface, referred to as theS1-U+ interface 466. In the illustrative example, the S1-U+ user planeinterface extends between the eNB 416 a and PGW 426. Notably, S1-U+path/interface does not include SGW 420, a node that is otherwiseinstrumental in configuring and/or managing packet forwarding betweeneNB 416 a and one or more external networks 406 by way of PGW 426. Asdisclosed herein, the S1-U+ path/interface facilitates autonomouslearning of peer transport layer addresses by one or more of the networknodes to facilitate a self-configuring of the packet forwarding path. Inparticular, such self-configuring can be accomplished during handoversin most scenarios so as to reduce any extra signaling load on the S/PGWs420, 426 due to excessive handover events.

In some embodiments, PGW 426 is coupled to storage device 440, shown inphantom. Storage device 440 can be integral to one of the network nodes,such as PGW 426, for example, in the form of internal memory and/or diskdrive. It is understood that storage device 440 can include registerssuitable for storing address values. Alternatively or in addition,storage device 440 can be separate from PGW 426, for example, as anexternal hard drive, a flash drive, and/or network storage.

Storage device 440 selectively stores one or more values relevant to theforwarding of packet data. For example, storage device 440 can storeidentities and/or addresses of network entities, such as any of networknodes 418, 420, 422, 424, and 426, eNBs 416 and/or UE 414. In theillustrative example, storage device 440 includes a first storagelocation 442 and a second storage location 444. First storage location442 can be dedicated to storing a Currently Used Downlink address value442. Likewise, second storage location 444 can be dedicated to storing aDefault Downlink Forwarding address value 444. PGW 426 can read and/orwrite values into either of storage locations 442, 444, for example,managing Currently Used Downlink Forwarding address value 442 andDefault Downlink Forwarding address value 444 as disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, the Default Downlink Forwarding address for eachEPS bearer is the SGW S5-U address for each EPS Bearer. The CurrentlyUsed Downlink Forwarding address” for each EPS bearer in PGW 426 can beset every time when PGW 426 receives an uplink packet, e.g., a GTP-Uuplink packet, with a new source address for a corresponding EPS bearer.When UE 414 is in an idle state, the “Current Used Downlink Forwardingaddress” field for each EPS bearer of UE 414 can be set to a “null” orother suitable value.

In some embodiments, the Default Downlink Forwarding address is onlyupdated when PGW 426 receives a new SGW S5-U address in a predeterminedmessage or messages. For example, the Default Downlink Forwardingaddress is only updated when PGW 426 receives one of a Create SessionRequest, Modify Bearer Request and Create Bearer Response messages fromSGW 420.

As values 442, 444 can be maintained and otherwise manipulated on a perbearer basis, it is understood that the storage locations can take theform of tables, spreadsheets, lists, and/or other data structuresgenerally well understood and suitable for maintaining and/or otherwisemanipulate forwarding addresses on a per bearer basis.

It should be noted that access network 402 and core network 404 areillustrated in a simplified block diagram in FIG. 4. In other words,either or both of access network 402 and the core network 404 caninclude additional network elements that are not shown, such as variousrouters, switches and controllers. In addition, although FIG. 4illustrates only a single one of each of the various network elements,it should be noted that access network 402 and core network 404 caninclude any number of the various network elements. For example, corenetwork 404 can include a pool (i.e., more than one) of MMEs 418, SGWs420 or PGWs 426.

In the illustrative example, data traversing a network path between UE414, eNB 416 a, SGW 420, PGW 426 and external network 406 may beconsidered to constitute data transferred according to an end-to-end IPservice. However, for the present disclosure, to properly performestablishment management in LTE-EPS network architecture 400, the corenetwork, data bearer portion of the end-to-end IP service is analyzed.

An establishment may be defined herein as a connection set up requestbetween any two elements within LTE-EPS network architecture 400. Theconnection set up request may be for user data or for signaling. Afailed establishment may be defined as a connection set up request thatwas unsuccessful. A successful establishment may be defined as aconnection set up request that was successful.

In one embodiment, a data bearer portion comprises a first portion(e.g., a data radio bearer 446) between UE 414 and eNB 416 a, a secondportion (e.g., an S1 data bearer 428) between eNB 416 a and SGW 420, anda third portion (e.g., an S5/S8 bearer 432) between SGW 420 and PGW 426.Various signaling bearer portions are also illustrated in FIG. 4. Forexample, a first signaling portion (e.g., a signaling radio bearer 448)between UE 414 and eNB 416 a, and a second signaling portion (e.g., S1signaling bearer 430) between eNB 416 a and MME 418.

In at least some embodiments, the data bearer can include tunneling,e.g., IP tunneling, by which data packets can be forwarded in anencapsulated manner, between tunnel endpoints. Tunnels, or tunnelconnections can be identified in one or more nodes of network 100, e.g.,by one or more of tunnel endpoint identifiers, an IP address and a userdatagram protocol port number. Within a particular tunnel connection,payloads, e.g., packet data, which may or may not include protocolrelated information, are forwarded between tunnel endpoints.

An example of first tunnel solution 450 includes a first tunnel 452 abetween two tunnel endpoints 454 a and 456 a, and a second tunnel 452 bbetween two tunnel endpoints 454 b and 456 b. In the illustrativeexample, first tunnel 452 a is established between eNB 416 a and SGW420. Accordingly, first tunnel 452 a includes a first tunnel endpoint454 a corresponding to an S1-U address of eNB 416 a (referred to hereinas the eNB S1-U address), and second tunnel endpoint 456 a correspondingto an S1-U address of SGW 420 (referred to herein as the SGW S1-Uaddress). Likewise, second tunnel 452 b includes first tunnel endpoint454 b corresponding to an S5-U address of SGW 420 (referred to herein asthe SGW S5-U address), and second tunnel endpoint 456 b corresponding toan S5-U address of PGW 426 (referred to herein as the PGW S5-U address).

In at least some embodiments, first tunnel solution 450 is referred toas a two tunnel solution, e.g., according to the GPRS Tunneling ProtocolUser Plane (GTPv1-U based), as described in 3GPP specification TS29.281, incorporated herein in its entirety. It is understood that oneor more tunnels are permitted between each set of tunnel end points. Forexample, each subscriber can have one or more tunnels, e.g., one foreach PDP context that they have active, as well as possibly havingseparate tunnels for specific connections with different quality ofservice requirements, and so on.

An example of second tunnel solution 458 includes a single or directtunnel 460 between tunnel endpoints 462 and 464. In the illustrativeexample, direct tunnel 460 is established between eNB 416 a and PGW 426,without subjecting packet transfers to processing related to SGW 420.Accordingly, direct tunnel 460 includes first tunnel endpoint 462corresponding to the eNB S1-U address, and second tunnel endpoint 464corresponding to the PGW S5-U address. Packet data received at eitherend can be encapsulated into a payload and directed to the correspondingaddress of the other end of the tunnel. Such direct tunneling avoidsprocessing, e.g., by SGW 420 that would otherwise relay packets betweenthe same two endpoints, e.g., according to a protocol, such as the GTP-Uprotocol.

In some scenarios, direct tunneling solution 458 can forward user planedata packets between eNB 416 a and PGW 426, by way of SGW 420. That is,SGW 420 can serve a relay function, by relaying packets between twotunnel endpoints 416 a, 426. In other scenarios, direct tunnelingsolution 458 can forward user data packets between eNB 416 a and PGW426, by way of the S1 U+ interface, thereby bypassing SGW 420.

Generally, UE 414 can have one or more bearers at any one time. Thenumber and types of bearers can depend on applications, defaultrequirements, and so on. It is understood that the techniques disclosedherein, including the configuration, management and use of varioustunnel solutions 450, 458, can be applied to the bearers on anindividual bases. That is, if user data packets of one bearer, say abearer associated with a VoIP service of UE 414, then the forwarding ofall packets of that bearer are handled in a similar manner. Continuingwith this example, the same UE 414 can have another bearer associatedwith it through the same eNB 416 a. This other bearer, for example, canbe associated with a relatively low rate data session forwarding userdata packets through core network 404 simultaneously with the firstbearer. Likewise, the user data packets of the other bearer are alsohandled in a similar manner, without necessarily following a forwardingpath or solution of the first bearer. Thus, one of the bearers may beforwarded through direct tunnel 458; whereas, another one of the bearersmay be forwarded through a two-tunnel solution 450.

FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary diagrammatic representation of a machine inthe form of a computer system 500 within which a set of instructions,when executed, may cause the machine to perform any one or more of themethods described above. One or more instances of the machine canoperate, for example, as processor 302, UE 414, eNB 416, MME 418, SGW420, HSS 422, PCRF 424, PGW 426 and other devices of FIGS. 1, 2, and 4.In some embodiments, the machine may be connected (e.g., using a network502) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine mayoperate in the capacity of a server or a client user machine in aserver-client user network environment, or as a peer machine in apeer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment.

The machine may comprise a server computer, a client user computer, apersonal computer (PC), a tablet, a smart phone, a laptop computer, adesktop computer, a control system, a network router, switch or bridge,or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential orotherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. It will beunderstood that a communication device of the subject disclosureincludes broadly any electronic device that provides voice, video ordata communication. Further, while a single machine is illustrated, theterm “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machinesthat individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) ofinstructions to perform any one or more of the methods discussed herein.

Computer system 500 may include a processor (or controller) 504 (e.g., acentral processing unit (CPU)), a graphics processing unit (GPU, orboth), a main memory 506 and a static memory 508, which communicate witheach other via a bus 510. The computer system 500 may further include adisplay unit 512 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), a flat panel, ora solid state display). Computer system 500 may include an input device514 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 516 (e.g., a mouse), adisk drive unit 518, a signal generation device 520 (e.g., a speaker orremote control) and a network interface device 522. In distributedenvironments, the embodiments described in the subject disclosure can beadapted to utilize multiple display units 512 controlled by two or morecomputer systems 500. In this configuration, presentations described bythe subject disclosure may in part be shown in a first of display units512, while the remaining portion is presented in a second of displayunits 512.

The disk drive unit 518 may include a tangible computer-readable storagemedium 524 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions (e.g.,software 526) embodying any one or more of the methods or functionsdescribed herein, including those methods illustrated above.Instructions 526 may also reside, completely or at least partially,within main memory 506, static memory 508, or within processor 504during execution thereof by the computer system 500. Main memory 506 andprocessor 504 also may constitute tangible computer-readable storagemedia.

As shown in FIG. 6, telecommunication system 600 may include wirelesstransmit/receive units (WTRUs) 602, a RAN 604, a core network 606, apublic switched telephone network (PSTN) 608, the Internet 610, or othernetworks 612, though it will be appreciated that the disclosed examplescontemplate any number of WTRUs, base stations, networks, or networkelements. Each WTRU 602 may be any type of device configured to operateor communicate in a wireless environment. For example, a WTRU maycomprise drone 102, a mobile device, network device 300, or the like, orany combination thereof. By way of example, WTRUs 602 may be configuredto transmit or receive wireless signals and may include a UE, a mobilestation, a mobile device, a fixed or mobile subscriber unit, a pager, acellular telephone, a PDA, a smartphone, a laptop, a netbook, a personalcomputer, a wireless sensor, consumer electronics, or the like. WTRUs602 may be configured to transmit or receive wireless signals over anair interface 614.

Telecommunication system 600 may also include one or more base stations616. Each of base stations 616 may be any type of device configured towirelessly interface with at least one of the WTRUs 602 to facilitateaccess to one or more communication networks, such as core network 606,PTSN 608, Internet 610, or other networks 612. By way of example, basestations 616 may be a base transceiver station (BTS), a Node-B, an eNodeB, a Home Node B, a Home eNode B, a site controller, an access point(AP), a wireless router, or the like. While base stations 616 are eachdepicted as a single element, it will be appreciated that base stations616 may include any number of interconnected base stations or networkelements.

RAN 604 may include one or more base stations 616, along with othernetwork elements , such as a base station controller (BSC), a radionetwork controller (RNC), or relay nodes. One or more base stations 616may be configured to transmit or receive wireless signals within aparticular geographic region, which may be referred to as a cell. Thecell may further be divided into cell sectors. For example, the cellassociated with base station 616 may be divided into three sectors suchthat base station 616 may include three transceivers: one for eachsector of the cell. In another example, base station 616 may employmultiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology and, therefore, mayutilize multiple transceivers for each sector of the cell.

Base stations 616 may communicate with one or more of WTRUs 602 over airinterface 614, which may be any suitable wireless communication link(e.g., RF, microwave, infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), or visiblelight). Air interface 614 may be established using any suitable radioaccess technology (RAT).

More specifically, as noted above, telecommunication system 600 may be amultiple access system and may employ one or more channel accessschemes, such as CDMA, TDMA, FDMA, OFDMA, SC-FDMA, or the like. Forexample, base station 616 in RAN 604 and WTRUs 602 connected to RAN 604may implement a radio technology such as Universal MobileTelecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA) thatmay establish air interface 614 using wideband CDMA (WCDMA). WCDMA mayinclude communication protocols, such as High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA)or Evolved HSPA (HSPA+). HSPA may include High-Speed Downlink PacketAccess (HSDPA) or High-Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA).

As another example base station 616 and WTRUs 602 that are connected toRAN 604 may implement a radio technology such as Evolved UMTSTerrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA), which may establish air interface 614using LTE or LTE-Advanced (LTE-A).

Optionally base station 616 and WTRUs 602 connected to RAN 604 mayimplement radio technologies such as IEEE 602.16 (i.e., WorldwideInteroperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX)), CDMA2000, CDMA2000 1x,CDMA2000 EV-DO, Interim Standard 2000 (IS-2000), Interim Standard 95(IS-95), Interim Standard 856 (IS-856), GSM, Enhanced Data rates for GSMEvolution (EDGE), GSM EDGE (GERAN), or the like.

Base station 616 may be a wireless router, Home Node B, Home eNode B, oraccess point, for example, and may utilize any suitable RAT forfacilitating wireless connectivity in a localized area, such as a placeof business, a home, a vehicle, a campus, or the like. For example, basestation 616 and associated WTRUs 602 may implement a radio technologysuch as IEEE 602.11 to establish a wireless local area network (WLAN).As another example, base station 616 and associated WTRUs 602 mayimplement a radio technology such as IEEE 602.15 to establish a wirelesspersonal area network (WPAN). In yet another example, base station 616and associated WTRUs 602 may utilize a cellular-based RAT (e.g., WCDMA,CDMA2000, GSM, LTE, LTE-A, etc.) to establish a picocell or femtocell.As shown in FIG. 6, base station 616 may have a direct connection toInternet 610. Thus, base station 616 may not be required to accessInternet 610 via core network 606.

RAN 604 may be in communication with core network 606, which may be anytype of network configured to provide voice, data, applications, and/orvoice over internet protocol (VoIP) services to one or more WTRUs 602.For example, core network 606 may provide call control, billingservices, mobile location-based services, pre-paid calling, Internetconnectivity, video distribution or high-level security functions, suchas user authentication. Although not shown in FIG. 6, it will beappreciated that RAN 604 or core network 606 may be in direct orindirect communication with other RANs that employ the same RAT as RAN604 or a different RAT. For example, in addition to being connected toRAN 604, which may be utilizing an E-UTRA radio technology, core network606 may also be in communication with another RAN employing a GSM radiotechnology.

Core network 606 may also serve as a gateway for WTRUs 602 to accessPSTN 608, Internet 610, or other networks 612. PSTN 608 may includecircuit-switched telephone networks that provide plain old telephoneservice (POTS). For LTE core networks, core network 606 may use IMS core614 to provide access to PSTN 608. Internet 610 may include a globalsystem of interconnected computer networks or devices that use commoncommunication protocols, such as the transmission control protocol(TCP), user datagram protocol (UDP), or IP in the TCP/IP internetprotocol suite. Other networks 612 may include wired or wirelesscommunications networks owned or operated by other service providers.For example, other networks 612 may include another core networkconnected to one or more RANs, which may employ the same RAT as RAN 604or a different RAT.

Some or all WTRUs 602 in telecommunication system 600 may includemulti-mode capabilities. That is, WTRUs 602 may include multipletransceivers for communicating with different wireless networks overdifferent wireless links. For example, one or more WTRUs 602 may beconfigured to communicate with base station 616, which may employ acellular-based radio technology, and with base station 616, which mayemploy an IEEE 802 radio technology.

FIG. 7 is an example system 700 including RAN 604 and core network 606.As noted above, RAN 604 may employ an E-UTRA radio technology tocommunicate with WTRUs 602 over air interface 614. RAN 604 may also bein communication with core network 606.

RAN 604 may include any number of eNode-Bs 702 while remainingconsistent with the disclosed technology. One or more eNode-Bs 702 mayinclude one or more transceivers for communicating with the WTRUs 602over air interface 614. Optionally, eNode-Bs 702 may implement MIMOtechnology. Thus, one of eNode-Bs 702, for example, may use multipleantennas to transmit wireless signals to, or receive wireless signalsfrom, one of WTRUs 602.

Each of eNode-Bs 702 may be associated with a particular cell and may beconfigured to handle radio resource management decisions, handoverdecisions, scheduling of users in the uplink or downlink, or the like.As shown in FIG. 7 eNode-Bs 702 may communicate with one another over anX2 interface.

Core network 606 shown in FIG. 7 may include a mobility managementgateway or entity (MME) 704, a serving gateway 706, or a packet datanetwork (PDN) gateway 708. While each of the foregoing elements aredepicted as part of core network 606, it will be appreciated that anyone of these elements may be owned or operated by an entity other thanthe core network operator.

MME 704 may be connected to each of eNode-Bs 702 in RAN 604 via an S1interface and may serve as a control node. For example, MME 704 may beresponsible for authenticating users of WTRUs 602, bearer activation ordeactivation, selecting a particular serving gateway during an initialattach of WTRUs 602, or the like. MME 704 may also provide a controlplane function for switching between RAN 604 and other RANs that employother radio technologies, such as GSM or WCDMA.

Serving gateway 706 may be connected to each of eNode-Bs 702 in RAN 604via the S1 interface. Serving gateway 706 may generally route or forwarduser data packets to or from the WTRUs 602. Serving gateway 706 may alsoperform other functions, such as anchoring user planes duringinter-eNode B handovers, triggering paging when downlink data isavailable for WTRUs 602, managing or storing contexts of WTRUs 602, orthe like.

Serving gateway 706 may also be connected to PDN gateway 708, which mayprovide WTRUs 602 with access to packet-switched networks, such asInternet 610, to facilitate communications between WTRUs 602 andIP-enabled devices.

Core network 606 may facilitate communications with other networks. Forexample, core network 606 may provide WTRUs 602 with access tocircuit-switched networks, such as PSTN 608, such as through IMS core614, to facilitate communications between WTRUs 602 and traditionalland-line communications devices. In addition, core network 606 mayprovide the WTRUs 602 with access to other networks 612, which mayinclude other wired or wireless networks that are owned or operated byother service providers.

FIG. 8 depicts an overall block diagram of an example packet-basedmobile cellular network environment, such as a GPRS network as describedherein. In the example packet-based mobile cellular network environmentshown in FIG. 8, there are a plurality of base station subsystems (BSS)800 (only one is shown), each of which comprises a base stationcontroller (BSC) 802 serving a plurality of BTSs, such as BTSs 804, 806,808. BTSs 804, 806, 808 are the access points where users ofpacket-based mobile devices become connected to the wireless network. Inexample fashion, the packet traffic originating from mobile devices istransported via an over-the-air interface to BTS 808, and from BTS 808to BSC 802. Base station subsystems, such as BSS 800, are a part ofinternal frame relay network 810 that can include a service GPRS supportnodes (SGSN), such as SGSN 812 or SGSN 814. Each SGSN 812, 814 isconnected to an internal packet network 816 through which SGSN 812, 814can route data packets to or from a plurality of gateway GPRS supportnodes (GGSN) 818, 820, 822. As illustrated, SGSN 814 and GGSNs 818, 820,822 are part of internal packet network 816. GGSNs 818, 820, 822 mainlyprovide an interface to external IP networks such as PLMN 824, corporateintranets/internets 826, or Fixed-End System (FES) or the publicInternet 828. As illustrated, subscriber corporate network 826 may beconnected to GGSN 820 via a firewall 830. PLMN 824 may be connected toGGSN 820 via a border gateway router (BGR) 832. A Remote AuthenticationDial-In User Service (RADIUS) server 834 may be used for callerauthentication when a user calls corporate network 826.

Generally, there may be a several cell sizes in a network, referred toas macro, micro, pico, femto or umbrella cells. The coverage area ofeach cell is different in different environments. Macro cells can beregarded as cells in which the base station antenna is installed in amast or a building above average roof top level. Micro cells are cellswhose antenna height is under average roof top level. Micro cells aretypically used in urban areas. Pico cells are small cells having adiameter of a few dozen meters. Pico cells are used mainly indoors.Femto cells have the same size as pico cells, but a smaller transportcapacity. Femto cells are used indoors, in residential or small businessenvironments. On the other hand, umbrella cells are used to covershadowed regions of smaller cells and fill in gaps in coverage betweenthose cells.

FIG. 9 illustrates an architecture of a typical GPRS network 900 asdescribed herein. The architecture depicted in FIG. 9 may be segmentedinto four groups: users 902, RAN 904, core network 906, and interconnectnetwork 908. Users 902 comprise a plurality of end users, who each mayuse one or more devices 910. Note that device 910 is referred to as amobile subscriber (MS) in the description of network shown in FIG. 9. Inan example, device 910 comprises a communications device (e.g., mobiledevice 102, mobile positioning center 116, network device 300, any ofdetected devices 500, second device 508, access device 604, accessdevice 606, access device 608, access device 610 or the like, or anycombination thereof). Radio access network 904 comprises a plurality ofBSSs such as BSS 912, which includes a BTS 914 and a BSC 916. Corenetwork 906 may include a host of various network elements. Asillustrated in FIG. 9, core network 906 may comprise MSC 918, servicecontrol point (SCP) 920, gateway MSC (GMSC) 922, SGSN 924, home locationregister (HLR) 926, authentication center (AuC) 928, domain name system(DNS) server 930, and GGSN 932. Interconnect network 908 may alsocomprise a host of various networks or other network elements. Asillustrated in FIG. 9, interconnect network 908 comprises a PSTN 934, anFES/Internet 936, a firewall 1038 (FIG. 10), or a corporate network 940.

An MSC can be connected to a large number of BSCs. At MSC 918, forinstance, depending on the type of traffic, the traffic may be separatedin that voice may be sent to PSTN 934 through GMSC 922, or data may besent to SGSN 924, which then sends the data traffic to GGSN 932 forfurther forwarding.

When MSC 918 receives call traffic, for example, from BSC 916, it sendsa query to a database hosted by SCP 920, which processes the request andissues a response to MSC 918 so that it may continue call processing asappropriate.

HLR 926 is a centralized database for users to register to the GPRSnetwork. HLR 926 stores static information about the subscribers such asthe International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), subscribedservices, or a key for authenticating the subscriber. HLR 926 alsostores dynamic subscriber information such as the current location ofthe MS. Associated with HLR 926 is AuC 928, which is a database thatcontains the algorithms for authenticating subscribers and includes theassociated keys for encryption to safeguard the user input forauthentication.

In the following, depending on context, “mobile subscriber” or “MS”sometimes refers to the end user and sometimes to the actual portabledevice, such as a mobile device, used by an end user of the mobilecellular service. When a mobile subscriber turns on his or her mobiledevice, the mobile device goes through an attach process by which themobile device attaches to an SGSN of the GPRS network. In FIG. 9, whenMS 910 initiates the attach process by turning on the networkcapabilities of the mobile device, an attach request is sent by MS 910to SGSN 924. The SGSN 924 queries another SGSN, to which MS 910 wasattached before, for the identity of MS 910. Upon receiving the identityof MS 910 from the other SGSN, SGSN 924 requests more information fromMS 910. This information is used to authenticate MS 910 together withthe information provided by HLR 926. Once verified, SGSN 924 sends alocation update to HLR 926 indicating the change of location to a newSGSN, in this case SGSN 924. HLR 926 notifies the old SGSN, to which MS910 was attached before, to cancel the location process for MS 910. HLR926 then notifies SGSN 924 that the location update has been performed.At this time, SGSN 924 sends an Attach Accept message to MS 910, whichin turn sends an Attach Complete message to SGSN 924.

Next, MS 910 establishes a user session with the destination network,corporate network 940, by going through a Packet Data Protocol (PDP)activation process. Briefly, in the process, MS 910 requests access tothe Access Point Name (APN), for example, UPS.com, and SGSN 924 receivesthe activation request from MS 910. SGSN 924 then initiates a DNS queryto learn which GGSN 932 has access to the UPS.com APN. The DNS query issent to a DNS server within core network 906, such as DNS server 930,which is provisioned to map to one or more GGSNs in core network 906.Based on the APN, the mapped GGSN 932 can access requested corporatenetwork 940. SGSN 924 then sends to GGSN 932 a Create PDP ContextRequest message that contains necessary information. GGSN 932 sends aCreate PDP Context Response message to SGSN 924, which then sends anActivate PDP Context Accept message to MS 910.

Once activated, data packets of the call made by MS 910 can then gothrough RAN 904, core network 906, and interconnect network 908, in aparticular FES/Internet 936 and firewall 1038, to reach corporatenetwork 940.

FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of an example PLMN architecture thatmay be replaced by a telecommunications system. In FIG. 10, solid linesmay represent user traffic signals, and dashed lines may representsupport signaling. MS 1002 is the physical equipment used by the PLMNsubscriber. For example, drone 102, network device 300, the like, or anycombination thereof may serve as MS 1002. MS 1002 may be one of, but notlimited to, a cellular telephone, a cellular telephone in combinationwith another electronic device or any other wireless mobilecommunication device.

MS 1002 may communicate wirelessly with BSS 1004. BSS 1004 contains BSC1006 and a BTS 1008. BSS 1004 may include a single BSC 1006/BTS 1008pair (base station) or a system of BSC/BTS pairs that are part of alarger network. BSS 1004 is responsible for communicating with MS 1002and may support one or more cells. BSS 1004 is responsible for handlingcellular traffic and signaling between MS 1002 and a core network 1010.Typically, BSS 1004 performs functions that include, but are not limitedto, digital conversion of speech channels, allocation of channels tomobile devices, paging, or transmission/reception of cellular signals.

Additionally, MS 1002 may communicate wirelessly with RNS 1012. RNS 1012contains a Radio Network Controller (RNC) 1014 and one or more Nodes B1016. RNS 1012 may support one or more cells. RNS 1012 may also includeone or more RNC 1014/Node B 1016 pairs or alternatively a single RNC1014 may manage multiple Nodes B 1016. RNS 1012 is responsible forcommunicating with MS 1002 in its geographically defined area. RNC 1014is responsible for controlling Nodes B 1016 that are connected to it andis a control element in a UMTS radio access network. RNC 1014 performsfunctions such as, but not limited to, load control, packet scheduling,handover control, security functions, or controlling MS 1002 access tocore network 1010.

An E-UTRA Network (E-UTRAN) 1018 is a RAN that provides wireless datacommunications for MS 1002 and UE 1024. E-UTRAN 1018 provides higherdata rates than traditional UMTS. It is part of the LTE upgrade formobile networks, and later releases meet the requirements of theInternational Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) Advanced and are commonlyknown as a 4G networks. E-UTRAN 1018 may include of series of logicalnetwork components such as E-UTRAN Node B (eNB) 1020 and E-UTRAN Node B(eNB) 1022. E-UTRAN 1018 may contain one or more eNBs. User equipment(UE) 1024 may be any mobile device capable of connecting to E-UTRAN 1018including, but not limited to, a personal computer, laptop, mobiledevice, wireless router, or other device capable of wirelessconnectivity to E-UTRAN 1018. The improved performance of the E-UTRAN1018 relative to a typical UMTS network allows for increased bandwidth,spectral efficiency, and functionality including, but not limited to,voice, high-speed applications, large data transfer or IPTV, while stillallowing for full mobility.

Typically MS 1002 may communicate with any or all of BSS 1004, RNS 1012,or E-UTRAN 1018. In a illustrative system, each of BSS 1004, RNS 1012,and E-UTRAN 1018 may provide MS 1002 with access to core network 1010.Core network 1010 may include of a series of devices that route data andcommunications between end users. Core network 1010 may provide networkservice functions to users in the circuit switched (CS) domain or thepacket switched (PS) domain. The CS domain refers to connections inwhich dedicated network resources are allocated at the time ofconnection establishment and then released when the connection isterminated. The PS domain refers to communications and data transfersthat make use of autonomous groupings of bits called packets. Eachpacket may be routed, manipulated, processed or handled independently ofall other packets in the PS domain and does not require dedicatednetwork resources.

The circuit-switched MGW function (CS-MGW) 1026 is part of core network1010, and interacts with VLR/MSC server 1028 and GMSC server 1030 inorder to facilitate core network 1010 resource control in the CS domain.Functions of CS-MGW 1026 include, but are not limited to, mediaconversion, bearer control, payload processing or other mobile networkprocessing such as handover or anchoring. CS-MGW 1026 may receiveconnections to MS 1002 through BSS 1004 or RNS 1012.

SGSN 1032 stores subscriber data regarding MS 1002 in order tofacilitate network functionality. SGSN 1032 may store subscriptioninformation such as, but not limited to, the IMSI, temporary identities,or PDP addresses. SGSN 1032 may also store location information such as,but not limited to, GGSN address for each GGSN 1034 where an active PDPexists. GGSN 1034 may implement a location register function to storesubscriber data it receives from SGSN 1032 such as subscription orlocation information.

Serving gateway (S-GW) 1036 is an interface which provides connectivitybetween E-UTRAN 1018 and core network 1010. Functions of S-GW 1036include, but are not limited to, packet routing, packet forwarding,transport level packet processing, or user plane mobility anchoring forinter-network mobility. PCRF 1038 uses information gathered from P-GW1036, as well as other sources, to make applicable policy and chargingdecisions related to data flows, network resources or other networkadministration functions. PDN gateway (PDN-GW) 1040 may provideuser-to-services connectivity functionality including, but not limitedto, GPRS/EPC network anchoring, bearer session anchoring and control, orIP address allocation for PS domain connections.

HSS 1042 is a database for user information and stores subscription dataregarding MS 1002 or UE 1024 for handling calls or data sessions.Networks may contain one HSS 1042 or more if additional resources arerequired. Example data stored by HSS 1042 include, but is not limitedto, user identification, numbering or addressing information, securityinformation, or location information. HSS 1042 may also provide call orsession establishment procedures in both the PS and CS domains.

VLR/MSC Server 1028 provides user location functionality. When MS 1002enters a new network location, it begins a registration procedure. A MSCserver for that location transfers the location information to the VLRfor the area. A VLR and MSC server may be located in the same computingenvironment, as is shown by VLR/MSC server 1028, or alternatively may belocated in separate computing environments. A VLR may contain, but isnot limited to, user information such as the IMSI, the Temporary MobileStation Identity (TMSI), the Local Mobile Station Identity (LMSI), thelast known location of the mobile station, or the SGSN where the mobilestation was previously registered. The MSC server may containinformation such as, but not limited to, procedures for MS 1002registration or procedures for handover of MS 1002 to a differentsection of core network 1010. GMSC server 1030 may serve as a connectionto alternate GMSC servers for other MSs in larger networks.

EIR 1044 is a logical element which may store the IMEI for MS 1002. Userequipment may be classified as either “white listed” or “black listed”depending on its status in the network. If MS 1002 is stolen and put touse by an unauthorized user, it may be registered as “black listed” inEIR 1044, preventing its use on the network. A MME 1046 is a controlnode which may track MS 1002 or UE 1024 if the devices are idle.Additional functionality may include the ability of MME 1046 to contactidle MS 1002 or UE 1024 if retransmission of a previous session isrequired.

As described herein, a telecommunications system wherein management andcontrol utilizing a software designed network (SDN) and a simple IP arebased, at least in part, on user equipment, may provide a wirelessmanagement and control framework that enables common wireless managementand control, such as mobility management, radio resource management,QoS, load balancing, etc., across many wireless technologies, e.g. LTE,Wi-Fi, and future 5G access technologies; decoupling the mobilitycontrol from data planes to let them evolve and scale independently;reducing network state maintained in the network based on user equipmenttypes to reduce network cost and allow massive scale; shortening cycletime and improving network upgradability; flexibility in creatingend-to-end services based on types of user equipment and applications,thus improve customer experience; or improving user equipment powerefficiency and battery life—especially for simple M2M devices—throughenhanced wireless management.

While examples of a telecommunications system in which emergency alertscan be processed and managed have been described in connection withvarious computing devices/processors, the underlying concepts may beapplied to any computing device, processor, or system capable offacilitating a telecommunications system. The various techniquesdescribed herein may be implemented in connection with hardware orsoftware or, where appropriate, with a combination of both. Thus, themethods and devices may take the form of program code (i.e.,instructions) embodied in concrete, tangible, storage media having aconcrete, tangible, physical structure. Examples of tangible storagemedia include floppy diskettes, CD-ROMs, DVDs, hard drives, or any othertangible machine-readable storage medium (computer-readable storagemedium). Thus, a computer-readable storage medium is not a signal. Acomputer-readable storage medium is not a transient signal. Further, acomputer-readable storage medium is not a propagating signal. Acomputer-readable storage medium as described herein is an article ofmanufacture. When the program code is loaded into and executed by amachine, such as a computer, the machine becomes an device fortelecommunications. In the case of program code execution onprogrammable computers, the computing device will generally include aprocessor, a storage medium readable by the processor (includingvolatile or nonvolatile memory or storage elements), at least one inputdevice, and at least one output device. The program(s) can beimplemented in assembly or machine language, if desired. The languagecan be a compiled or interpreted language, and may be combined withhardware implementations.

The methods and devices associated with a telecommunications system asdescribed herein also may be practiced via communications embodied inthe form of program code that is transmitted over some transmissionmedium, such as over electrical wiring or cabling, through fiber optics,or via any other form of transmission, wherein, when the program code isreceived and loaded into and executed by a machine, such as an EPROM, agate array, a programmable logic device (PLD), a client computer, or thelike, the machine becomes an device for implementing telecommunicationsas described herein. When implemented on a general-purpose processor,the program code combines with the processor to provide a unique devicethat operates to invoke the functionality of a telecommunicationssystem.

EXAMPLES Example 1

A network device comprising: a processor, an input/output device coupledto the processor, and a memory coupled with the processor, the memorycomprising executable instructions that when executed by the processorcause the processor to effectuate operations comprising instantiating atleast one quality of service controller, the quality of servicecontroller receiving a request for a change in a QOS setting from adefault QOS setting to an altered QOS setting; analyzing the request todetermine if the requested change in QOS setting can be granted; whenthe request for a change in QOS setting can be granted, preparing analtered flow rule including a tag identifying the altered QOS setting;and pushing the altered flow rule to at least one access hardware.

Example 2

The network device of example 1, wherein when granting the request forthe altered QOS setting, the quality of service controller identifies atrigger as a limit to the altered QOS setting, when the trigger occurs,quality of service controller reverts to a default flow rule resettingthe QOS setting to the default QOS setting.

Example 3

The network device of example 2, wherein the trigger includes at leastone of a time limit and a session.

Example 4

The network device of example 1, wherein the tag includes an altered IPaddress.

Example 5

The network device of example 1, wherein the tag includes a prioritybit.

Example 6

The network device of example 5, wherein the priority bit includes atleast one reserved bit within an IP address.

Example 7

The network device of example 4, wherein the priority bit includes atleast one reserved bit within a DSCP version of an IP address.

Example 8

The network device of example 1, wherein the quality of servicecontroller is instantiated within an SDN controller.

Example 9

The network device of example 1, wherein the quality of servicecontroller includes an API.

Example 10

The network device of example 1, wherein the step of analyzing therequest includes determining whether sufficient network elements existor can be instantiated to provide the altered priority.

Example 11

A quality of service setting system comprising a quality of servicecontroller including an input/output device; at least one user/CPEhaving a default QOS setting, the at least one user/CPE selectivelycommunicating a request for an altered QOS setting to the quality ofservice controller; wherein the quality of service controller, upondetermining that the request for the altered QOS setting can be granted,is configured to issue an altered flow rule including a tag establishingthe altered QOS setting for the at least one user/CPE, whereinsubsequent communications from the user/CPE carry the tag.

Example 12

The system of example 11 further comprising a SDN controller, thequality of service controller in communication with the SDN controller,wherein the quality of service controller is configured to query the SDNcontroller to determine availability of resources supporting the alteredQOS setting in response to the request.

Example 13

The system of example 11 further comprising at least one accesshardware, wherein the quality of service controller communicates withthe at least one access hardware to deliver the altered flow rule to theat least one access hardware.

Example 14

The system of example 11, wherein the request includes a trigger thatlimits the duration of the altered QOS setting.

Example 15

The system of example 11, wherein the trigger identifies at least one ofa time limit and a session.

Example 16

The system of example 11, wherein the tag includes a priority bit.

Example 17

The system of system 16, wherein the priority bit includes at least onereserved bit within an IP address.

Example 18

The network device of example 16, wherein the priority bit includes atleast one reserved bit within a DSCP version of an IP address.

Example 19

A method of changing quality of service on demand in a network, themethod comprising: providing a quality of service controller incommunication with an SDN controller and at least one user/CPE, wherethe user/CPE has a default QOS setting; when a request to change thedefault QOS setting to an altered QOS setting is received by the qualityof service controller from the user/CPE, analyzing whether the requestcan be granted; when granting the request, providing an altered flowrule having a tag that indicates to access hardware that communicationsfrom the user/CPE will have the altered QOS setting.

Example 20

The method of example 19 further comprising; reverting the altered QOSsetting to the default QOS setting upon expiration of at least one of asession and a time limit.

What is claimed:
 1. A device comprising: a processor; and a memorycoupled with the processor, the memory comprising executableinstructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor toeffectuate operations comprising: instantiating at least one quality ofservice controller, the quality of service controller receiving arequest for a change in a quality of service (QOS) setting from adefault QOS setting to an altered QOS setting, wherein the requestincludes a trigger that limits a duration of the altered QOS setting;analyzing the request to determine if the requested change in QOSsetting can be granted; when the request for a change in QOS setting canbe granted, preparing an altered flow rule including a tag identifyingthe altered QOS setting, wherein the tag includes one or more prioritybits created using free bits of an Internet protocol (IP) or aDifferentiated Services Code Point (DSCP) address; and pushing thealtered flow rule to at least one access hardware.
 2. The device ofclaim 1, wherein when granting the request for the altered QOS setting,the quality of service controller identifies a trigger as a limit to thealtered QOS setting, when the trigger occurs, quality of servicecontroller reverts to a default flow rule resetting the QOS setting tothe default QOS setting.
 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the triggerincludes at least one of a time limit and a session.
 4. The device ofclaim 1, wherein the request is a request for a session, and whereinupon expiration of the session, causing the altered QOS setting tochange to the default QOS setting.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein thequality of service controller is instantiated within a software-definednetwork controller.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the quality ofservice controller comprises an application programming interface. 7.The device of claim 1, wherein the step of analyzing the requestincludes determining whether sufficient network elements exist or can beinstantiated to provide an altered priority.
 8. A method comprising:instantiating at least one quality of service controller, the quality ofservice controller receiving a request for a change in a quality ofservice (QOS) setting from a default QOS setting to an altered QOSsetting, wherein the request includes a trigger that limits a durationof the altered QOS setting; analyzing the request to determine if therequested change in QOS setting can be granted; when the request for achange in QOS setting can be granted, preparing an altered flow ruleincluding a tag identifying the altered QOS setting, wherein the tagincludes one or more priority bits created using free bits of anInternet protocol (IP) or a Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP)address; and pushing the altered flow rule to at least one accesshardware.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein when granting the requestfor the altered QOS setting, the quality of service controlleridentifies a trigger as a limit to the altered QOS setting, when thetrigger occurs, quality of service controller reverts to a default flowrule resetting the QOS setting to the default QOS setting.
 10. Themethod of claim 9, wherein the trigger includes at least one of a timelimit and a session.
 11. The method of claim 8, wherein the request is arequest for a session, and wherein upon expiration of the session,causing the altered QOS setting to change to the default QOS setting.12. The method of claim 8, wherein the quality of service controller isinstantiated within a software-defined network controller.
 13. Themethod of claim 8, wherein the quality of service controller includes anapplication programming interface.
 14. The method of claim 8, whereinthe step of analyzing the request includes determining whethersufficient network elements exist or can be instantiated to provide analtered priority.
 15. A computer readable storage medium storingcomputer executable instructions that when executed by a computingdevice cause said computing device to effectuate operations comprising:instantiating at least one quality of service controller, the quality ofservice controller receiving a request for a change in a quality ofservice (QOS) setting from a default QOS setting to an altered QOSsetting, wherein the request includes a trigger that limits a durationof the altered QOS setting; analyzing the request to determine if therequested change in QOS setting can be granted; when the request for achange in QOS setting can be granted, preparing an altered flow ruleincluding a tag identifying the altered QOS setting, wherein the tagincludes one or more priority bits created using free bits of anInternet protocol (IP) or a Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP)address; and pushing the altered flow rule to at least one accesshardware.
 16. The computer readable storage medium of claim 15, whereinwhen granting the request for the altered QOS setting, the quality ofservice controller identifies a trigger as a limit to the altered QOSsetting, when the trigger occurs, quality of service controller revertsto a default flow rule resetting the QOS setting to the default QOSsetting.
 17. The computer readable storage medium of claim 16, whereinthe trigger includes at least one of a time limit and a session.
 18. Thecomputer readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the quality ofservice controller is instantiated within a software-defined networkcontroller.
 19. The computer readable storage medium of claim 15,wherein the request is a request for a session, and wherein uponexpiration of the session, causing the altered QOS setting to change tothe default QOS setting.
 20. The computer readable storage medium ofclaim 15, wherein the step of analyzing the request includes determiningwhether sufficient network elements exist or can be instantiated toprovide an altered priority.